Dear Putnam Valley Community:
I’m hopeful that everyone will be able to enjoy this sunny Friday afternoon. I would also like to extend Happy Mother’s Day wishes to all the moms out there, I hope you have a wonderful day.
Teacher Appreciation Week: Teacher appreciation week takes on a new meaning this year. In many ways, we asked our teachers to do the “impossible” and yet they found a way to make it work for all students. Despite the challenges, they faced they were ready each day to support our students and each other. As a district, we were able to accomplish things that many around our region were unable to provide. It was certainly a year like no other.
On many occasions, I have shared how proud I am of the Putnam Valley School District and more specifically of our staff. I hope each staff member feels some internal pride in what they were able to provide the students of Putnam Valley despite all of the challenges they faced.
I recognize how challenging the remainder of the school year will be for everyone, but I am hopeful that the worst is behind us and we can safely begin next year with full in-person instruction. I want to again thank my teacher colleagues for what they do every day to make Putnam Valley the special place it is and for making a difference in our students’ lives. I extend my gratitude and appreciation for going above and beyond this past school year.
Positive Cases: After a very quiet week last week, we did see an increase in cases this week. There were five students and one staff member at Putnam Valley Middle School and two students at Putnam Valley Elementary School that tested positive this past week. Although the positivity rate in the county is currently reaching low rates that we have not seen since early fall, we should all remain diligent. This current COVID variant has proven to spread quickly among children.
School Calendar Change: I anticipate the following changes being made to our end-of-year schedule.
- Thursday, June 24: ½ day for ES and MS students, HS students are in their Regents Week – last day of testing.
- Friday, June 25: No school for ES and MS students, Rating Day for the HS.
Support Staff Appreciation: I know that I speak for my administrative and teacher colleagues by thanking our support staff for the essential role they play in the daily operations of our buildings. You are the glue that holds us all together and the engine that pushes us forward. No matter what role you serve within the District, you are making a difference in the lives of our students each day. Thank you!
Thank you,
Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools